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BEST OF JAPAN

Featuring: Shinjuku, Tokyo, Matsumoto, Takayama, Kanazawa , Awazu Onsen, Kyoto, Kushimoto, Osaka

This holiday combines the best of Japan, from the ancient traditions to the mountainous wildlife. Begin in Japans exciting and colourful capital, before setting off on Japans efficient network of train and bus. Enjoy spectacular trekking past Mount Fuji while bear watching in Matsumoto. Drink tea in the old Geisha districts and whale watching in Japans beautiful marine parks.

Japan has so much to offer and this trip is a great mix of Japanese tradition and modern western culture. It is an opportunity to learn about ancient customs and spiritual tranquillity and be astounded by the vast landscape and natural wildlife in Japan.

The accommodation on this tour is a variety of small locally run western hotels and Japanese style properties, such as Minshuku and Ryokan. Experience how the locals sleep on futons and enjoy delicious home cooked meals. The transport methods we use are all local buses and trains, which are Japanese owned, reducing our carbon footprints in the sky. Our guides are local wherever possible and brimming with knowledge, supporting local employment.

The tour starts in Tokyo, giving you an opportunity to try local foods and indulge in the mix of future technology and ancient traditions. Then travel into the countryside by express train to Matsumoto for some alpine trekking and views of Mt Fuji. Learn about bear conflicts during your hike.

Other highlights of the tour include visiting Takayama’s river market for an opportunity to buy local farm produce, flowers and crafts, which will contribute to the local economy. In Kanazawa refresh in a teahouse, or explore the gardens and geisha districts by local transport. Spend a night in Hoshi Ryokan, the oldest Ryokan in the world, operated by the same family for 46 generations, over 1,300 years. Visit the heritage sights of Kyoto and join Peter Macintosh, a long-term resident, on a walking tour.